1. Determine File Type

.doc, .docx - use Microsoft Word, WordPad or some other word processors to open it.

.RTF - use Microsoft Word, WordPad or some other word processors to open it.

.xls, .xlsx - use Microsoft Excel or other spreadsheet to open it.

.csv - use Microsoft Excel or other spreadsheet or database program to open it.

.ppt , .pptx - use Microsoft PowerPoint to open it.

.pdf - If your file ends in .pdf (portable document format), you need a PDF reader such as Adobe's Acrobat® Reader to view and print.

.zip - A zipped file (.zip) is a normal file that has been compressed to a smaller size so that it takes less time to download. Download it like any other file, then unzip it using unzip program - WinZip, PkUnzip. Some operating systems will open automatically.

Note: TDI does not provide help with files or information downloaded.

2. Download File

You may want to download files to your desktop before deciding where to save for future use.

Select the filename or link to the file you want to download.

When a popup box opens to ask: What would you like to do with this file? or something similar, select "Save" or "Save to Disk." Then select OK.

Wait until the file has finished downloading.

If the file is a ZIP file (compressed file), you must decompress or unzip it before using it. Often your operating system (Windows or other) will unzip the file when you click or double click on it. You may be asked to extract one or more files and to name an existing or new folder as the destination for the files. You may want to change the destination to a new folder on your desktop for your convenience. Once the files have been extracted to the folder, you can open them with the appropriate program or viewer. Many of our download files require a spreadsheet program or viewer.

3. Open and Use File

If you use a spreadsheet program like MS Excel or a word processor program:

Select "File" then "Open" and an "open box" will appear.

Under "search for files that match this criteria" change the "Files of Type" drop down box to show " *.* All Files".

Look for your filename, highlight and open it.

Newer spreadsheet programs will bring in .csv files automatically. But if you use an older spreadsheet, you may want to use the "import" method to bring the file in. That allows you to select a comma as the delimiter.

At this point, your program should allow you to save, sort, analyze and search the data.

If you're using a database program like MS Access, you may have to double click on the .csv file to open it.

Frequently Asked Questions

For questions about agents' license data, please contact TDI's agents' license section at License@tdi.texas.gov. Please include your phone number when sending an e-mail.

Why does #### appear in a column? You need to widen the column so all the data will appear.

How can I find the downloaded file I need to open? From your spreadsheet or database program do "File" then "Open". Set the File Type drop down box to All Files (*.*).